In a bid to address the persistent clashes between the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC) over recruitment matters, the Nigerian Senate has called for harmonious cooperation. The recent confirmation of DIG Hashimu Argungu (retd.) as the new PSC Chairman prompted this call for unity.
The friction between the IGP and the PSC has hindered the recruitment process for the Nigeria Police Force. Despite the need to bolster security by adding more officers, personality clashes and disagreements have plagued the system. In fact, the issue escalated all the way to the Supreme Court, resulting in delays and missed opportunities to bring in an additional 20,000 Nigerians into the force over the past two years.
Senator Godswill Akpabio, President of the Senate, emphasized the importance of avoiding past mistakes. He urged the Committee on Police Affairs to exercise effective oversight to prevent a recurrence of the recruitment gridlock. Specifically, he highlighted the need for the IGP and the PSC to collaborate seamlessly. Their shared responsibility is to prioritize the interests of Nigerians and enhance national security.
As the newly confirmed PSC leadership assumes their roles, Nigerians hope for a smoother recruitment process, one that aligns with the President’s vision of a secure nation where citizens can rest easily. The Senate’s call for cooperation serves as a reminder that unity and shared purpose are essential for effective law enforcement and public safety.
